Malaysia fall to Japan in Horsens, Denmark; Malaysia advances as Group B runners-up

BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026: Malaysia fall despite Lee Zii Jia win

The Olympic bronze medallist has been in fine form for Team Malaysia, but couldn’t prevent a narrow loss to Japan in final group game at this year’s men’s championships.

MalaysianbadmintonstarLee Zii Jiamaintained his perfect record at theBWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026,registering his third singles win, but couldn’t prevent his nation from going down toJapanin the final group-stage tie.

The Olympic bronze medallist defeatedKoki Watanabe21-13, 21-19, in what turned out to be a dead rubber in Horsens, Denmark, after Japan had already secured the top spot in Group B by racing to an unassailable 3-1 lead after four matches.

With the pressure off, Lee showcased his skill and swagger, swiftly getting past Watanabe in the first game in 15 minutes.

The 28-year-old Malaysian, who won bronze in men’s singles atParis 2024, faced early resistance from Watanabe in the second game but soon found his rhythm, celebrating his maiden victory over his Japanese opponent.

Lee, who wrapped up the match in just 41 minutes, is yet to drop a game at this year’s Thomas Cup, the world men’s team championships.

Earlier, five-time winners Malaysia got off to a shaky start whenLeong Jun Haolost his opening singles match toNaraoka Kodaiin straight games. However, the pair ofAaron ChiaandTee Kai Wunresponded with a win in the doubles rubber.

Japan restored their lead afterYushi Tanakatriumphed in the second singles match beforeTakumi NomuraandYuichi Shimogamidug deep for a come-from-behind victory overNur IzzuddinandWooi Yik Soh, sealing an unassailable lead for Japan.

Malaysia’s 3-2 defeat to Japan in the final group tie meant they will go through to the quarter-finals as runners-up of Group B.

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In Group A, reigning champions, thePeople’s Republic of China, confirmed the top spot after they gaining a 3-1 lead overIndia, with the final singles match yet to be played. Both teams had already secured their places in the last-eight.

The men’s Thomas Cup quarter-finals will be held on Friday, followed by the semi-final the next day and the final on Sunday.

Picture by 2022 Getty Images

24 April - 3 May

Badminton | Thomas & Uber Cup Finals | Horsens| Denmark